1,4-Dioxane

Health Effects

Classified as a likely human carcinogen by EPA. Associated with liver and kidney damage in animal studies. EPA health advisory of 0.35 µg/L represents a one-in-one-million cancer risk level.

Source: EPA National Primary Drinking Water Regulations

Where It Comes From

Synthetic industrial chemical used as a solvent stabilizer and found as a contaminant in many consumer products (detergents, shampoos, cosmetics). Also an industrial solvent and groundwater contaminant from manufacturing waste.

Where It's Commonly Found

Near industrial and manufacturing sites, Superfund sites, and landfills. Found in groundwater in many states. Particularly problematic in Long Island (NY), Michigan, and North Carolina.

No federal MCL - currently unregulated by EPA. Listed on the Contaminant Candidate List. Several states have set their own limits (e.g., New York MCL of 1 µg/L). Detected in water supplies serving tens of millions of Americans.

How to Remove It